Your cycling holiday
in Cycling Holidays Portugal

The Douro Valley by E-Bike | Self Guided

The Douro valley, named after the Douro river which has spent millennia sculpting this beautiful landscape, sits in northern Portugal, from the Spanish border in the east to the bustling city of Porto on the Atlantic coast. The gleaming blue-green waters of the river wind in land amongst vine covered hills and colorful river port towns, where the local produce of Port makes its way to the coast and onwards to the rest of the world.

The cycling here takes in the stunning mountain terrain, with the top of the range electric bikes providing plenty of assistance as you navigate this mesmerizing landscape.

What not to miss

Taking a boat trip on the Douro river and soaking up the sun and the scenery.

Tasting the local wines in Quinta.

Visiting the spectacular 18th century Mateus Palace.

What’s included

Flights and Transfers

6-nights accommodation

Bed & Breakfast

Electric Bikes and Helmets

GPS Navigation

1 Hour Douro River Cruise

Local support whenever needed

Extras

Extra nights in Porto (on request)

Return to Porto by boat with lunch onboard (on request)

This tour is operated by our preferred local partner

Your cycling holiday in Cycling Holidays Portugal

The Douro Valley by E-Bike | Self Guided

Your cycling holiday in Cycling Holidays Portugal

The Douro Valley by E-Bike | Self Guided

Day 1 | Arrive at Porto.

Take the scenic train journey from Porto to Régua, where we will transport you to your first hotel for a welcome briefing.

Day 2 | Round trip through local vineyards | Distance 18 miles (30km).

Your first days cycling starts with a descent into the town of Peso da Régua, with spectacular views all around. After exploring the town, your route continues through the expansive vineyards that make this part of the world so celebrated by oenophiles. Your route also takes you through a local farm, where you can stop to explore, before taking the road less travelled over the river and back up to your hotel.

Day 3 | Cycle to Pinhão | Distance 21 miles (34 km).

Todays route follows the river Douro on one of Portugal’s most beautiful roads. Included today is a chance to taste the local wines in Quinta and the opportunity to spend an hour river cruising on the Douro, giving you the chance to absorb the landscape from a new perspective. Further up the river, your accommodation in the town of Pinhão awaits.

Today you have an optional round trip available that takes you through the beautiful local vineyards in arguably the Duoro valleys most pictuersque spot. The terrain is hilly, but your ebike will help you glide around with relative ease. The route takes you through a number of small, charming villages where you'll find small, rustic eateries for lunch. Alternatively, an optional picnic lunch can be arranged with your hotel before you set off.

Day 5 | Boat ride and round trip cycle | Distance 26 miles (42 km).

Today begins with a boat ride on a traditional Portugues cargo boat to Regua. You then leave Régua by bike and head south towards the relatively unknown and staggeringly beautiful town of Lamego. Here you will find a charming historical town, complete with a grandiose cathedral, perched atop a rather extravagant set of steps, as well as a 5th century castle and a bustling town centre. After exploring Lamego, the route ends with a descent back into Peso da Régua.

Day 6 | Train transfer to Porto

Your final day begins with a transfer to Régua train station and a scenic train ride to the marvellous city of Porto. There is also an upgrade option to return to Porto by boat, including lunch with local produce. You have all day to explore the city, whether that is on foot or by hopping on the excellent tram network. The city has so much to see and do that a list here would do it a disservice, but we love spending time on the riverside at Cais da Ribeira. Please note that pre-booking this train journey is not possible, so tickets are not included and must be purchased locally (approx. €8pp).

Day 7 | Departure

We say “Tchau” before transferring you to Porto Airport.

Your cycling holiday in Cycling Holidays Portugal

Gallery

Your cycling holiday in Cycling Holidays Portugal

The Douro Valley by E-Bike | Self Guided

Note: The accommodation listed below is indicative, it is not guaranteed and is subject to availability. Alternative accommodation of an equal standard may be used.

Casa de São Domingos, Peso da Régua

Guesthouse

A beautiful bed and breakfast with spectacular outdoor spaces, including a lovely swimming pool, and with well presented rooms. The atmosphere is calm, relaxing and quintessentially Portuguese.

Casa Na Sra. Do Carmo, Régua region

Guesthouse

A hidden gem perched on a hillside overlooking the town of Peso da Régua. This lovingly restored property is a haven of peace with fantastic views of the vine covered landscape of the Douro. The outdoor pool and patio are the ideal place to start your holiday, perhaps with some locally produced port in hand.

Hotel LBV, Pinhão

Guesthouse

Sat on the outskirts of Pinhão, the Hotel LBV is a beautifully presented hotel, with stunning views of the Douro river winding through the valley floor below. The outdoor space features an infinity style pool and plenty of seating space for enjoying the sunset.

Quinta do Paço, Villa Real Region

Guesthouse

A charming hotel overlooking the town of Villa Real. The pristine outside spaces are complimented by the cool, classical interior, perfectly befitting the buildings former life as a manor house. The outdoor pool is a perfect spot for cooling off after a day on the bike, before venturing inside to sample the menu of the well-reviewed hotel restaurant.

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